Te Ūaka past, present, and future

The Lyttelton Museum, now known in partnership with Te Hapū o Ngāti Wheke as Te Ūaka, has inhabited three sites throughout its history: 2 Hawkhurst Road, 2 Gladstone Quay, and its future permanent home at 35 London Street.

The physical journey of Te Ūaka Lyttelton Museum is a story of connections. Founded as a reaction to the mistreatment of copies of the Lyttelton Times, the museum's shifting locations – from military barracks to the Seamen’s Institute, and finally to London Street – mirror the harbour's evolving infrastructure.

This exhibition highlights the human connections that have sustained these "harbour stories" through disaster and development. From the watersiders and volunteers who united to relocate the collection in 1980, to the museum’s foundational partnership with Te Hapū o Ngāti Wheke today, its history proves that community connections shape our shared future.

Access to the cabin is via stairs from London Street or from the carpark at the rear (flat access from Oxford Street).

Volunteers will be present to provide historical insights and assist with enquiries.

Image: Lyttelton Museum's second home at 2 Gladstone Quay [ref 12214.1]